The central question we will be examining is whether the mind or consciousness is due to the existence of an immaterial soul, this position is called mind-body dualism, or whether consciousness can be reducible to matter.
We will examine the following basic positions:
1. Traditional Body Soul Dualism (Substance Dualism).
2. Mind Brain Type Identity Theory.
3. Mind Brain Token Identity Theory.
(2) and (3) are both physicalist positions in that they both claim that the mind is physical or material (made of matter). (1) is a non-physicalist position that claims that the mind is a non-physical immaterial (spiritual) substance.
We will look at some of the problems associated with each position and the objections that have been raised against them.
Introduction to Philosophy 